Brighton County Hospital’s Neonatal unit upgraded thanks to supporter’s donations

The improvements include the opening of a new quiet room and were funded by supporters of the hospital and The Early Birth Association charity. Almost £8,000 was raised towards the scheme by the unit’s staff who abseiled the i360.

Unit matron Claire Hunt said: “It’s a challenging time for any family with a baby on the neonatal unit, so it’s great that we can now offer families a more comfortable space that allows us to maintain their privacy more easily.”

Main works were funded by donations to the hospital charity but supporters of the Early Birth Association also made the new quiet room possible.

Two businesses helped with the new quiet room with DFS donating the furnishings, and Dulux providing advice on colour and the paint.

“It provides a space away from the nurseries, other babies, and visitors for staff to talk privately to parents when this is needed,” Claire said.

“These can be difficult, sometimes devastating conversations and the difference that having a calm, private space will make is unquantifiable.”

Jemma Roberts, who helped to design the space, said: “My daughter Tilly was born prematurely and the first conversation we had with the consultant was in a storage room- it just didn’t feel right. I hope the quiet room helps parents and families going through trying times.”

Visit www.earlybirth.co.uk